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In the global healthcare hub, the United Arab Emirates, working as a health professional is a great career choice for those in the medical profession. In the bustling metropolis of Dubai, you will find a well-developed medical community, advanced facilities, and modern technologies, with thousands of highly skilled professionals and healthcare businesses working to improve lives. For those looking to join this thriving sector, there are many opportunities to practice as a professional. To do so, obtaining a DHA license Dubai is the first essential step for both UAE nationals and expatriates.
Securing the DHA license involves a thorough understanding of the process, requirements, fees, and qualifications. This blog will serve as a roadmap for all applicants, providing all the necessary details to ensure a smooth application for the DHA license. Start reading to unlock your future in Dubai’s thriving and dynamic healthcare industry.
Before discussing about the DHA license, let us have a look at the overall healthcare sector of the nation and you will find for yourself why practicing as a medical expert here is a rewarding choice. The overall healthcare ecosystem of UAE is valued at 34 billion dollars for the year 2024 and it is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of approximately 8%, creating massive opportunities for healthcare professionals. There are many factors that contribute to the massive growth such as preference for healthcare, accessibility to top notch treatment, growing medical tourism industry, technological advancements and so on.
Working in health sector of Dubai unlocks so many benefits for you, including:
Anyone who wants to practice as a medical professional in Dubai must obtain a DHA license. It is a special permit that allows individuals to provide healthcare services legally in the city. The Health Regulation Department (HRD) under the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is responsible for issuing this license to eligible and qualified applicants. You can access the DHA health licensing service through DHA’s online portal “Sheryan”.
The DHA Dubai also regulates the healthcare sector and oversees its development in Dubai. To secure a license, candidates must meet the eligibility criteria and pass the DHA exam and assessments. Once issued, the license confirms that the holder meets the specific standards and qualifications and is competent to deliver medical services in the Emirate.
Healthcare professionals eligible for licensing by the DHA include:
However, in addition to belonging to these fields, applicants must undergo proper eligibility checks. They must meet specific requirements, such as having the right qualifications, a clear criminal background, and relevant experience. Applicants can easily check their eligibility through the DHA online portal, Sheryan, here: Self Assessment Tool
The documents typically needed for DHA license Dubai includes the following:
Documentation can be a bit complex, it is better to consult the professionals who can facilitate the entire process.
Here is a step-by-step guide to obtain a DHA license Dubai:
To begin the DHA license application process, it is recommended to check your eligibility beforehand. You can use the Sheryan portal of the DHA, where you will answer a few questions about yourself, such as your degree, field, institute, country of qualification, and experience. Once you have answered all the questions, click “Get Results”, and you will see on the screen whether you are eligible or not.
Once you confirm your eligibility, you can proceed with confidence. Start by creating an account on the Sheryan portal’s Single Sign-On. Enter details such as your name, nationality, mobile number, and click Register. Once done, you will receive your login credentials via email. Using this account, you can submit and track various applications and access the services provided by the DHA.
To proceed further, you will need to undergo Primary Source Verification, conducted by the DHA through DataFlow. In this process, the documents you provide—such as educational qualifications, experience certificates, and current licenses—are verified for authenticity.
Simultaneously, you will also need to take a Computer-Based Test (CBT), a mandatory assessment for when applying for position of doctors, dentists, nurses, nutritionist in Dubai. This test evaluates the applicant’s knowledge and skill set and is conducted through the third-party service provider Prometric. Qualifying these two allows you to go ahead with the DHA registration.
After successfully completing the above steps, the next stage is to get formally registered with the DHA to proceed with your DHA license Dubai processing. To do this, you must fill out an application form available online through the same portal and attach the required documents. Carefully review your application to ensure all the information provided is accurate and complete the submission by paying the necessary fees.
Once submitted, the DHA Dubai will thoroughly review your application, considering your Primary Source Verification (PSV) and Computer-Based Test (CBT) results. You will receive one of three outcomes: approved, rejected, or returned for more information. Once approved, your DHA registration will be granted and will be valid for one year, and you will officially become a part of the Dubai Medical Registry.
Some medical professional positions also require passing an oral examination. In such cases, DHA registration will only be granted once you successfully clear this step as well. It is important to note that for all types of assessments, you must clear them within three attempts as mandated by the authorities. Additionally, professionals must not be blacklisted to be eligible for DHA registration. The oral assessment fees can range from AED 250 – AED 500, based on position you are applying for.
To start practicing as a medical health professional, you must activate your professional DHA license Dubai. To do so, you will need to submit application form for DHA license in UAE through Sheryan, which will then be reviewed by the authority. Once your application is approved by the relevant authority, your license will be issued, and you can start your medical profession journey in Dubai.
The DHA license Dubai has its own validity period. Typically, it is valid for one year, after which it needs to be renewed. It is recommended to begin the renewal process 3 months before the expiry for a timely and hassle-free renewal of the license. The renewal process typically takes around 5 working days. You would generally need a copy of your valid passport, PSV result for experience, valid license, good conduct certificate, and a logbook for surgical specialties (in case of a clinical gap exceeding 2 years).
The DHA license cost can range from AED 1,000* to AED 7,500* depending on the category you are applying for. As per the DHA, the approximate cost of activating the professional license is as follows:
Please contact Dubiz Business Setup for more details on DHA license fees.
A DHA license Dubai is essential for medical experts, serving as a testament to your expertise and adherence to the highest levels of health standards and quality services. Though the requirements to obtain one may seem daunting, it is well within reach when you have the right support and guidance.
Dubiz Business Setup has been in the business of helping professionals establish themselves in Dubai for over 7 years, turning their dreams into reality in this vibrant city. Dubiz is committed to the success of its clients and would be more than happy to assist you in achieving yours. From checking eligibility to securing approvals and submitting documentation, your DHA license Dubai is just a few steps away with us. In case, you are looking to start a healthcare business in Dubai, we can guide you end-to-end.
Why wait to start a rewarding career in Dubai when you can begin today?
Call us now on +971563695485. WhatsApp us +971563695485 . Or mail your inquiries to: info@dubiz.co.
Once you submit your application for a DHA license Dubai, you can easily monitor and track its status through DHA’s online portal using the unique reference number you receive at the time of submission along with your login details.
No, experience is required to take a DHA exam. All applicants must have the experience relevant to the title they are applying for.
The passing score for the DHA exam varies depending on the category. For example, for physicians, it is 65%, which can go up to 70% for certain categories like paediatricians. For dentists, the passing score is 60%, and for medical laboratory technicians, it is 45%. You can find the exact details in the DHA exam guide.
If you fail the DHA exam, you get two more attempts to appear again in the exam (three total attempts allowed). You will have to wait for 6 weeks before you can reappear in the exam. In case you fail the third time as well, you will need obtain a new qualification and show some upgrade in your course/experience or reapply for same position after 2 years.
Yes, the DHA exam is processed online and you do not need to visit Dubai to apply for the license.
Yes, the format of the DHA exam is multiple choice questions (MCQs) consisting of 100 to 150 questions and exam duration is of 2 to 3 hours depending on category you are appearing for.
You can apply through the Sheryan portal of DHA to request a good standing certificate. Just fill out the online form and submit it, then pay the required fees. DHA will review your application, and once approved, your clearance certificate will be granted with a copy sent to you. The approximate cost of this service is AED 500.
